ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has rejected a petition seeking the removal of Special Assistant to PM on Accountability Barrister Shahzad Akbar.
In a detailed judgment issued by the IHC Chief Justice Athar Minullah today, the court rejected the plea and added some observations to the decision.
In its order, the judges mentioned that no record has been submitted that proves Akbar interfered in NAB’s matters.
The verdict also stated that the Constitution permits the president to appoint a maximum number of five advisers upon the advice of the prime minister, saying that it is the choice of the premier to appoint any assistant for himself.
The court further stated that there are no standards set for the appointment of a special assistant to the prime minister.
Touching upon the role of a special assistant, the court observed that he/she can become part of the parliament’s proceedings but cannot cast a vote.
The IHC rejected the request to look into Akbar’s position as the head of the Assets Recovery Unit, saying the issue has been raised at the Supreme Court and the apex court will issue a detailed verdict on the matter.